Press Release

August 18, 2016

Congressman Pete King Praises Long Island Ducks

The Long Island Ducks are an outstanding baseball team playing in the Liberty Division of the Atlantic League which is an independent high level professional league. Just as importantly the Ducks are a great asset to the Long Island community being involved in so many vital activities and causes including breast cancer and Alzheimer's awareness, support for veterans and first responders, and reaching out to sick children. Playing in Bethpage Ballpark in Central Islip and led by CEO Frank Boulton, V.P., Coach and Mets great Bud Harrelson, and Manager and former Met Kevin Baez, the Ducks always provide a family friendly atmosphere and top quality baseball. The Ducks are playing their 17th season and have won 3 league championships. This year the Ducks finished first in their Division in the first half of the season and are also leading in the second half.
Beginning in 2002, at Frank Boulton's invitation, I have had the opportunity to throw out the first pitch at a number of Ducks games. It's always a great moment for me (even if it's not so great for the fans!). My goal is to pitch it from the rubber and make sure it doesn't bounce. So far I've been successful. This Sunday I threw out the first pitch before the Ducks-Lancaster Barnstormers game. Again I really enjoyed the moment as my friend Bud Harrelson caught the pitch making me look a lot better than I am. The ballpark was crowded with fans, including many happy kids, all cheering on their Ducks!
This wasn't the Ducks' day though as the Barnstormers won big. Still it was a great baseball day on Long Island and the Ducks are still well positioned to win another championship. Let's Go Ducks!!